Yes, there are significant problems at the VA that need to be addressed, but Gen. Shinseki is a good man, and a patriot, who was trying to do the best job he could at a time when the demands being placed on the VA system are increasing exponentially.

For many politicians–and the media–the followup is always the harder part. And there is likely to be hell to pay politically for any member of Congress who doesn’t work constructively to help fix the system. Veterans are not going to stand for either party trying to score political points off of this tragedy.

Jim Manley, director of the communications practice at QGA Public Affairs, is a former aide to Sens. Harry Reid and Edward Kennedy.

About Washington Wire

Washington Wire is one of the oldest standing features in American journalism. Since the Wire launched on Sept. 20, 1940, the Journal has offered readers an informal look at the capital. Now online, the Wire provides a succession of glimpses at what’s happening behind hot stories and warnings of what to watch for in the days ahead. The Wire is led by Reid J. Epstein, with contributions from the rest of the bureau. Washington Wire now also includes Think Tank, our home for outside analysis from policy and political thinkers.